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CW

"Scrabble", "Trivial Pursuit" to Return
New Episodes Begin October 1
From the Futon Critic

The CW Network today announced pickup orders for its three most successful original unscripted series, renewing SCRABBLE and TRIVIAL PURSUIT for a third season with new one-hour episodes, along with a fourth-season order for new one-hour episodes of POLICE 24/7.

The combined order builds on the momentum of the three breakout unscripted series, which have collectively reached more than 31.4 million viewers on The CW since debuting and generated more than 1.2 million viewing hours across The CW's digital platforms.

This fall, all three series will expand their reach even further, having already secured syndication clearances in more than 85% of U.S. television markets. Together, the three series rank among The CW's top five prime-time entertainment programs for the 2025-26 season.

Hosted by Emmy(R) Award-winning actor and comedian Craig Ferguson, SCRABBLE brings the iconic Hasbro word game to life as contestants put their vocabulary, strategy and quick thinking to the test for the chance to win life-changing cash prizes. Since premiering on The CW, SCRABBLE has reached more than 9.2 million viewers. The series is produced by Hasbro Entertainment, The CW, Mattel Television Studios and Lionsgate Alternative Television.

Hosted by Emmy(R) and Grammy Award-winning entertainer LeVar Burton, TRIVIAL PURSUIT, developed by Hasbro Entertainment and inspired by the iconic Hasbro board game, transforms one of the world's most recognizable trivia brands into a fast-paced competition where contestants put their knowledge to the test across a wide range of categories. Along with the upcoming unscripted adaptation of MONOPOLY, the series is part of Hasbro Entertainment's portfolio of television programming based on the most beloved brands. Following two second seasons on The CW, the series has reached more than 14.7 million viewers. TRIVIAL PURSUIT is produced by Hasbro Entertainment, The CW, Lionsgate Alternative Television and Talpa Studios.

The second seasons of TRIVIAL PURSUIT and SCRABBLE continue on The CW this fall with new episodes debuting on Thursday, October 1. Premiere dates for the newly ordered seasons will be announced at a later date.

The Futon Critic
Deadline
Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
TV Insider
TV NewsCheck

posted 8/3/2026


Hulu/Disney/Sony Pictures TV

Jamie Ding Teams with Ben Affleck
"Millionaire" Scores Best Numbers in a Year
From The Futon Critic

Following on a strong start to the season, week 2 of ABC's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" rose from last week's Season 5 premiere with 4.22 million Total Viewers (+4%; vs. 4.07 million), as contestants Ben Affleck and Jamie Ding won the $1 million prize for Eastern Congo Initiative.

"Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" was the top program of the night for the second week in a row among Total Viewers, leading its closest competition by +28% (vs. 3.29 million for CBS' "Big Brother-Wed").

"Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" scored the show's best performance in a year, since Matt Damon and Ken Jennings won the $1 million prize last summer (7/30/25).

On this week's "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire," airing Wednesday, Aug. 5, on ABC (streaming next day on Hulu), country music star Brad Paisley teams up with MLB legend Clayton Kershaw, followed by comedian Michael Kosta and actress Wendi McLendon-Covey.

People
TV Insider
WLS-TV Chicago

The Futon Critic

Deadline

posted 8/3/2026

"Weakest Link" Embraces Villain Era
Reality Foes to Compete on New Season
From Entertainment Weekly

You don’t have to go to the House of Villains to see a collection of reality television baddies, because many of them will be making like the Avengers and assembling on a game show set this fall. Celebrity Weakest Link will kick off its second season (which premieres Sept. 21 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Fox and the next day on Hulu) with an episode featuring eight of reality TV’s most famous — and infamous — personalities.

The “reality villains” episode features:
- Richard Hatch: The original reality competition villain who won the very first season of Survivor, Hatch returned for Survivor: All-Stars and recently appeared on House of Villains.
- Omarosa: The former White House aide began her reality TV career on the first season of The Apprentice, before returning for two more celebrity installments of the Donald Trump-hosted show. She has since competed on Celebrity Big Brother, Big Brother Australia VIP, and House of Villains.
- Tiffany Pollard: The one-time VH1 mainstay started as a contestant on the first two seasons of Flavor of Love before scoring her own spin-off with I Love New York. Since then, she has competed on Celebrity Big Brother in the U.K., Worst Cooks in America: Celebrity Edition, and all three seasons of House of Villains.
- Bob the Drag Queen: The RuPaul’s Drag Race season 8 winner also made a splash on The Traitors, getting into a game-ending feud with fellow Traitor Boston Rob.
- Tom Sandoval: The Vanderpump Rules star has been appearing all over the reality competition spectrum, doing turns on Special Forces: World’s Toughest Test, The Masked Singer, The Traitors, America’s Got Talent, and House of Villains.
- Monica Garcia: Garcia only appeared on one season of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, but what a season it was, as she feuded with castmates and was then let go from the show. She then provided the voice of EVA 2.0 on season 2 of — what else? — House of Villains.
- Big Ed: Big Ed has managed to extend his 15 minutes of fame thanks to his exploits on 90 Day Fiancé and various franchise offshoots.
- Christine Quinn: The realtor-turned-Selling Sunset star left the Netflix series after five seasons, and has since competed on The Masked Singer and, you guessed it, House of Villains.

Who will emerge triumphant and win up to one million dollars for their charity, and who will emerge as the weakest link? We’ll find out this fall.

Entertainment Weekly
TV Insider

posted 8/3/2026


Paramount/Warner Bros. Discovery

PAUSE.
Paramount Wants a Trial in November; States Ask for April
From CNN

Paramount says its takeover of CNN’s parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, will be delayed for many months, and potentially well into 2027, due to pending lawsuits by state attorneys general and the Writers Guild of America.

Paramount said in a Friday afternoon court filing that it has agreed not to complete the mega-merger until an antitrust trial takes place, or until June 1, 2027, whichever comes first.

The current Paramount–Warner merger agreement expires on March 4, and is subject to an automatic extension through June 4, 2027.

Friday’s announcement blows up Paramount’s original plan to take control of Warner by the end of September. The delay was celebrated by critics of the deal. Shares in both Paramount and WBD slumped on the news.

The delay does not preclude all the parties involved from striking a settlement deal that would clear the path for the merger, though there are no indications that the cases are heading in that direction.

For the time being, at least, the deal uniting two of Hollywood’s biggest studios is in a deep freeze.

Friday’s agreement is the result of discussions between the lawyers for all the parties. It means there will no longer be an August 3 hearing on the states’ request for a preliminary injunction, and it withdraws the Writers Guild’s similar motion.

LATEST
- Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison said he’s confident the combination with Warner Bros Discovery “does not pose any legal issues, and we will complete it and bring these two companies together.” “I know this additional uncertainty has been challenging, and I want to thank you for your continued patience, commitment and collective contributions,” he said in a memo to staff Monday obtained by Deadline. “For now, it remains business as usual. Paramount and WBD are separate companies operating independently, and our focus remains on serving our audiences, supporting one another and executing our strategy.”
- Privately, some top executives at Warner Bros. Discovery are rooting for the 12 states that have sued to block Paramount Skydance’s WBD takeover to win in court and get the megadeal nixed. What’s obvious, according to multiple sources, is that there’s a sizable contingent at Warner Bros. of people who don’t want the merger with Paramount to happen. And the prevailing feeling among some at WBD clearly is a hope that the state attorneys general lawsuit will gum up the works long enough to cause the deal to fall apart.
- Paramount Skydance asked a judge on Friday to schedule its upcoming antitrust trial in November, while a coalition of states and the Writers Guild of America asked for a date in April 2027. The scheduling matters a lot to Paramount, which will begin paying Warner Bros. shareholders $7 million a day on Sept. 30 until the deal is complete. In the filing, Paramount argued that a delay also “prejudices the creative industry, the individuals who work within it, and the consumers who benefit from it.” The 12-state coalition, including California and New York, filed suit on July 13, alleging that the $111 billion merger of Paramount and Warner Bros. will unlawfully reduce competition in the basic cable and theatrical distribution markets. The Writers Guild of America filed a separate suit the next day, arguing that it will also harm the marketplace for writers. Paramount has argued that the deal will help consumers by providing a more robust competitor to streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime. In the joint filing on Friday, the states asked Judge Araceli Martinez-Olguin to schedule a 12-15 day trial starting on April 5, 2027. The Writers Guild of America concurred with the states’ scheduling request. Paramount wants a 12-day trial beginning on Nov. 4, arguing that any postponement prolongs an uncertain environment.
- The Alan Cumming-backed Block the Merger coalition has submitted evidence to the UK Culture Secretary over why the Paramount-Warner mega-merger should be blocked. Four of the groups that make up the coalition said they provided Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy with “market data and first-hand professional evidence as she determines whether to intervene.” UK parliament is now in recess for the summer and Nandy, who has already said she is “minded to intervene,” will not deliver her decision until September 1 at the earliest. Since the recess, the $110B merger has slammed the brakes in the U.S. after 12 States sued.
- In an alternate timeline, Paramount would be reporting quarterly earnings this week as Warner Bros. Discovery, one of its subsidiaries, would no longer be releasing its own separate financials. As it stands now, however, both companies are due to report – Paramount on Tuesday afternoon and WBD before the market opens Thursday. An antitrust challenge of the companies’ planned $110 billion merger by the attorneys general of 12 states along with the Writers Guild of America has put the deal on hold, with a judge soon to set a trial date.

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posted 8/3/2026


Getty
VINCENT PASTORE: 1946-2026
"The Sopranos" Actor Played Games
From Entertainment Weekly

Vincent Pastore, the actor best known for his work on HBO’s The Sopranos, has died. Pastore was found by a neighbor at his home in the Bronx in New York City on Saturday, Deadline reported. He was 80 years old.

The outlet also reported that nobody had heard from Pastore for three days before he was found, and that authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.

Pastore was best known for playing mob informant Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero on The Sopranos. He was a regular on the classic crime drama’s first two seasons and later guest starred in two episodes of season 3, one episode of season 5, and one episode of season 6.

Pastore’s manager, Robert Attermann, shared a statement honoring the late actor. “I had the privilege of representing Vinny for more than 30 years, long before The Sopranos made him a household name,” he wrote. “To the world, he will always be remembered as the unforgettable ‘Big Pussy,’ but to those of us who knew him, he was so much more.”

Attermann memorialized the actor as “one of the kindest, most generous people I have ever known,” adding, “He treated everyone with warmth and respect, never turning down a fan who wanted a photograph or an autograph. He genuinely appreciated the people who supported him and always made them feel valued.”

The performer’s manager spoke highly of Pastore’s commitment to his work. “He loved being an actor,” he wrote. “He was passionate about his craft and was always encouraging, respectful, and generous with young actors, taking the time to offer guidance and support whenever he could.”

He continued, “For me, losing Vinny is deeply personal. Over more than three decades, I had the honor of watching not only his remarkable career but also the incredible person he was. I will miss his friendship, his loyalty, his humor, and his generosity.” Attermann concluded, “My deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless fans whose lives he touched. He leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond his memorable performances. He will be greatly missed and never forgotten. May his memory be a blessing.”

Born in the Bronx in 1946, Pastore served in the Navy during the Vietnam War, and later earned a drama degree from Pace University. He worked in nightclubs and bars for decades before finally making his screen debut in the 1988 horror movie Black Roses.

Pastore said that he broke into Hollywood circles after connecting with Matt and Kevin Dillon. “It was really Kevin Dillon who got me my first break,” he told Edge Magazine. “I used to drive a limo in New York and that’s when I met the brothers for the first time. I told them about my dreams of becoming an actor. They ended up seeing me at this community theater I was doing, and Kevin helped me out. He gave me the direction I needed to finally act. From there, Danny Aiello really became my mentor.”

Pastore appeared in numerous high-profile movies and shows in small roles, primarily playing mobsters and tough New Yorkers in films like Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas, Mario Van Peebles’ New Jack City, Brian De Palma’s Carlito’s Way, and Woody Allen’s Manhattan Murder Mystery in the early 1990s. He also played several different characters in a string of one-off appearances on Law & Order, and appeared in a Broadway production of Chicago in 1996.

Other notable credits in the 1990s included Awakenings, The Basketball Diaries, The Jerky Boys: The Movie, Mickey Blue Eyes, The Hurricane, and the HBO movie Gotti.

“Gotti was a big hit for HBO, so they called us in, [to] bring in the usual suspects,” he told Eddie Mata in an interview in March. “And everybody they brought in from Gotti got a part.”

After landing the Sopranos gig, Pastore continued acting in movies, with supporting roles in projects like Riding in Cars With Boys, Made, Shark Tale, and The Family. He amassed nearly 200 acting credits in his four-decade screen career, appearing on shows like General Hospital, The Practice, Bull, Ed, Blue Bloods, Hawaii Five-0, and The Curse. His most recent screen credit came when he voiced a llama in a season 3 episode of Yellowjackets in 2025.

Pastore appeared on a number of reality shows, including Dancing With the Stars, Shark Tank, The Celebrity Apprentice, and Celebrity Family Feud. He also hosted a radio show, The Wiseguy Show, on Sirius, and later started the Fuhgeddaboudit podcast in 2020.

Entertainment Weekly
Deadline

posted 8/3/2026

Monday Lightning Round
... or "The Big Time"

  • Kamri Peterson graduates from "Dancing with the Stars Juniors" to the mothership... as a member of the troupe (Deadline)

  • BBC reportedly nervous about jokes on "Have I Got News For You" during their lawsuit (Deadline)

  • Did Carson Daly quiet quit "The Voice" season 31? (The Sun)

  • Remember Geno Segers, the host of DisneyXD's version of "Fort Boyard". He was in Hadestown.... WAS. (Broadway World)

  • MOMENT OF AWESOME: Zac Brown gives 37,000 fans a free cruise (WKRC Cincinnati)

posted 8/3/2023


Sony Pictures TV/ESPN

More on "ESPN Jeopardy!"
Catch It on Disney+ & Hulu Today!
From Hulu PR

“ESPN Jeopardy!,” the ultimate match-up between sports and the world’s leading quiz show, is coming to Disney+ and Hulu and the ESPN app on Friday, July 31.

Hosted by Emmy®-winning and Monday Night Football broadcaster Joe Buck, “ESPN Jeopardy!” features sports commentators and celebrity sports fans as they face off to experience the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat in a new arena: the Alex Trebek Stage. With material covering the full spectrum of ESPN content, this is “Jeopardy!” for sports fanatics. Contestants will represent charities of their choice as they compete in a tournament-style event for the $500,000 grand prize and the title of “ESPN Jeopardy!” champion.

The series is produced by Sony Pictures Television and executive-produced by Michael Davies. All episodes will stream on Disney+, Hulu and on the ESPN app.

The following are the 18 players competing this summer:
- MJ Acosta-Ruiz
- Kyle Brandt
- Madelyn Burke
- Jamie Erdahl
- Domonique Foxworth
- Jon Hamm
- Jay Harris
- Keegan-Michael Key
- Kimberley Martin
- Kevin Neghandi
- Adam Pally
- Omar Raja
- Jeremy Schaap
- Peter Schrager
- Amina Smith
- Hannah Storm
- Manti Te'o
- Christine Williamson

Hulu PR
Laughing Place
TV Insider

The Futon Critic

TV Insider

posted 7/31/2026

Happy Friday Lightning Round
... or "Tokyo Toni on Read"

  • Kori King reacts to Tokyo Toni (aka Blac Chyna's momma) using an anti-gay slur (Entertainment Weekly)

  • Raven revealed to be a mole for "Drag Race Down Under vs. the World"... surprisingly everyone has a problem with this (Entertainment Weekly)

  • Not to defend the Internet from Sharna Burgess but it's easy for people to read "wedding venue" from "Baby, this is the best wedding location ever" (Reality TV World)

  • Zack, Bliss from "Love Is Blind" welcome baby #2 (People)

  • After winning "MasterChef", Jessica Bosworth & Jesse Rosenwald made it official... with Gordon Ramsay's help! (Gold Derby)

  • A FEW GOOD MINUTES... with Michael "Modernize or Die" Davies (Vulture)

posted 7/31/2023


Getty Images

Alison Hammond Can Name That Tune in 5 Notes
ITV to Reboot Series in 2027
From Deadline

ITV is set to revive one of the most iconic music-themed gameshows of all time for a new generation. That’s right – Name That Tune is making a comeback. Based on the successful US format of the same name, and airing in the UK on its original run from 1976 through to 1987, before being rebooted for the first time by Channel 5 from 1997-98, Name That Tune is being revived for the third time and is set to hit screens on ITV early next year.

ITV is reviving iconic gameshow Name That Tune with Great British Bake Off host Alison Hammond taking the reins.

The show, which aired on ITV decades ago and has recently been performing well in the U.S. on Fox, sees contestants pitted against each other as their music knowledge is tested in a series of fast-paced rounds, featuring tracks from much-loved artists and bands from across every genre – all building towards a finale.

The band who play in the Fox version will join Hammond for ITV. They have played with the likes of Adele and the Spice Girls down the years.

Name That Tune has been around for decades and has now aired for five seasons on Fox after being revived in 2020 as both a celebrity and non-celeb version, hosted by Jane Krakowski. Created by Harry Salter in the 1950s, it originally aired on ITV from 1976 to 1987 and was briefly revived by Channel 5 (now 5) in the 1990s. In the U.S., it has aired on-and-off for for 70 years on NBC, CBS, syndication, and now Fox.

“As a massive music lover, my biggest challenge as a host will be trying not to grab the mic and start singing along when one of my all-time favourite tunes comes on,” commented Hammond as she was announced as the host for the reboot. “And trust me… that will take serious self control.

“I grew up absolutely loving the original show so being part of this now feels like a real full-circle moment. I cannot wait to get into the studio, put the contestants through their paces, and see who really knows their music.”

Fox Entertainment Global President Prentiss Fraser added: “With the continued success of the hit Fox series in the U.S, we’re thrilled to see it find a new home on such a fantastic network and excited to be part of bringing the UK version to life.”

The series has been commissioned by Rawcliffe and Louise Major, Entertainment Commissioning Editor ITV. Executive producers for Bright are Clara Elliott and Martin Scott. Executive producers for BiggerStage are Pat Kiely and Sean O’Riordan.

Name That Tune is owned by Prestige Entertainment Group and is based on the format created by Salter. Fox Entertainment Global facilitated the agreement between Prestige Entertainment Group, BiggerStage and ITV.

ITV has told viewers to expect the show to be ‘bigger, louder, and more feel-good than ever’ once it returns in January.

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Birmingham Live
Manchester Evening News
Digital Spy
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Rayo

posted 7/30/2026

Mike Darnell Is Back
Former Fox, Warner Reality Head Deals with Netflix
From Deadline

Mike Darnell is back.

The reality television luminary has struck a major deal with Netflix as he enters his third act. Darnell has signed an exclusive, multi-year overall deal with the streamer. He will also provide “strategic creative guidance” across its entire unscripted slate.

The surprising move comes three years after Darnell left Warner Bros., where he spent ten years as President of Unscripted Television.

The deal came about after conversations between Brandon Riegg, who is Vice President, Nonfiction Series & Sports and oversees all of unscripted programming, and Darnell over the last few months.

Darnell spent ten years on the studio side, working on shows such as The Voice and The Bachelor, and nearly 20 years on the network side at Fox, where he was behind countless hits such as American Idol, MasterChef and So You Think You Can Dance as well as headline-making titles such as Alien Autopsy: Fact or Fiction, When Animals Attack! and Who Wants To Marry A Multimillionaire.

At Netflix, he will develop and produce a range of projects from competition series to dating shows and reality ensemble projects.

Darnell, who is known for “loud” ideas and shows that “push the boundaries”, has had particular success with shiny floor entertainment shows, which has been a focus for Netflix in recent years. The streamer has been keen to crack its version of these types of formats.

Deadline understands that he will also help guide its unscripted slate, which includes big-ticket competition series such as Willy Wonka-themed The Golden Ticket and an adaptation of iconic board game Monopoly as well as its plethora of reality shows and lifestyle series.

Deadline
The Wrap

Variety
The Hollywood Reporter
Reality TV World

posted 7/30/2026

"Blankety Blank" Gets (BLANKED)
"Match Game" Version Among Three Shows Axed by BBC
From the BBC

Blankety Blank, Celebrity Mastermind and Live at the Apollo have been cancelled by the BBC, as the corporation makes further financial savings.

The main Mastermind series will continue, with Clive Myrie remaining as host, but the celebrity spin-off will end after the next series, which has already been filmed.

In a statement, the BBC said it was "incredibly proud of all three of these much-loved shows" and thanked the programmes' production teams.

"Unfortunately," it continued, "we have to make some really tough choices in light of our funding challenges, and these savings have been identified from the Entertainment genre."

Viewing figures for all three shows have fallen over recent years. Celebrity Mastermind has dropped from an average of 4m viewers in 2017, to 1.7m for its most recent series.

Blankety Blank, meanwhile, has gone down from 5.5m viewers in 2021 to 2.3m for the most recent series.

And Live at the Apollo has dropped from around 1.3m viewers in 2018 to around 660,000 on its most recent series. These figures include catch-up platforms such as iPlayer.

"Blankety Blank" host Bradley Walsh, currently on TV with The Chase Around the World, previously confirmed he wouldn't be returning to Blankety Blank this year as he "[does] not have the time".

Digital Spy/Yahoo!
Radio Times
Belfast Telegraph
Metro
BBC News
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Seenit
Mnchester Evening News
Deadline
The Independent

posted 7/30/2026

Stars Lined Up for "Top Chef VIP" Season 5
Catch It on Telemundo August 11
From Deadline

Telemundo is headed back to the kitchen for the return of the hottest culinary competition, Top Chef VIP Season 5.

Originally slated to premiere in September, the Spanish-language network has moved up the premiere to Tuesday, August 11, where it will sizzle starting at 7 p.m. ET. Episodes will stream next day on Peacock.

Carmen Villalobos returns as host of the competition, which sees 20 celebrities compete for a $200,000 cash prize.

The cast of Top Chef VIP Season 5 consists of Athenea Pérez (Miss Universe Spain), Aylín Mujica (Actress), Carlos “Caramelo” Cruz (La Casa de los Famosos Season 5 winner), Carlos Ferro (Actor), Carlos Ponce (Actor), Diana Haro (Actress), Gaby Borges (Actress), Guty Carrera (Content Creator), José Joel (Singer), Kelly Ríos (Content Creator), Lupillo Rivera (Singer), Mauricio Garza (Actor), Miguel Arce (Actor), Nailea Norvind (Actress), Nievelis González (Content Creator), Ninel Conde (Actress), Pedro Luis “La Divaza” Figueroa (Content Creator), Roberto Romano (Actor), Sheynnis Palacios (Miss Universe 2023), and Stephanie Salas (Actress).

Judging the competition are Chef Betty Vázquez, Chef Tita, and Chef Antonio “Toño” de Livier.

Top Chef VIP is a RCN production for Telemundo based on NBCUniversal Formats’ Top Chef franchise, under the supervision of Adrián Santucho, Senior Vice President of Non-Scripted Content, alongside Pancho Calvo, Vice President of Unscripted Content, with Luciano Cardinali as Executive Producer.

Deadline
Forbes

posted 7/30/2026

The 90s Are All That on HGTV
"Totally 90s House" Competition Premieres August 26
From The Hollywood Reporter

HGTV is assembling a slate of ’90s television stars to lead Totally ‘90s House, a new competitive home renovation series hosted by Jaleel White.

Brian Austin Green, Beverley Mitchell, Jodie Sweetin, Melissa Joan Hart, Matthew Lawrence, Keshia Knight Pulliam and Joey Lawrence will star in the six-episode season that premieres on Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The celebrities will be tasked with revamping homes that are stuck in the decade, with the winner walking away with a $25,000 donation for their chosen charity.

A logline reads, “A true blast from the past, the six-episode renovation competition, hosted by actor, producer and game show host Jaleel White (Family Matters), will follow two celeb teams as they scour the country for houses stuck in the 1990s — think honey oak cabinets, sponge-painted walls and mirrored closets — with each team ultimately picking their perfect throwback in need of a major overhaul.”

“Everybody loves the ‘90s again,” said White. “The fits are back, the playlists are on repeat, and kids who weren’t even born yet are binge-watching the shows we made famous. But while some things from the ‘90s are timeless… some of y’all never got the memo that the decade ended. We asked America to show us the homes still living in the past, and the response was incredible. Now it’s time for the ultimate throwback transformation. Get ready for the biggest ‘90s house battle ever.”

As the contestants continue to develop their spaces, more celebrities and HGTV stars will judge their creativity, nostalgia and overall design. Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt (100 Day Dream Home), Drew Lachey (Rock the Block), Mina Starsiak Hawk (Good Bones), Paige Davis (Trading Spaces) and Jonathan Adler (Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge) will all make appearances over the six-episode season.

The Hollywood Reporter
The Futon Critic
TV Insider

posted 7/30/2026

Thursday Lightning Round
... or "Back to the Floor"

  • Rylee Arnold has one more date night before going long distance, if you know what we mean (TV Insider)

  • Ken Jennings lists his music, fashion, film, and Costco picks for the summer (TV Insider)

  • Taylor Frankie Paul swears her exes are out to get her (Reality Tea)

  • Alaska, J. Harrison Ghee go on tour with "Oh, Mary!" (Playbill)

  • With the largest drag show ever in Calgary, RuPaul is officially AMAZING (Guinness World Records)

  • A FEW GOOD MINUTES... with Darragh Ennis (Irish Post)

posted 7/30/2023


Fremantle/ABC

This.... Is American Idol's 25th Season!
ABC Renews for Landmark Year, Beginning with Idol Across America August 25
From The Futon Critic

"American Idol," the iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre, returns for a monumental 25th season.

The search for a superstar begins when "American Idol" premieres next year on ABC and streams next day on Disney+ and Hulu. Once live shows begin, episodes will also stream live on Disney+.

Season 25 auditions kick off Tuesday, Aug. 25, with the return of "Idol Across America," the live virtual nationwide search for the next superstar, taking place across all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. Those auditioning will be given the opportunity to showcase their talents face-to-face with an "American Idol" producer, from anywhere in America, across any official audition date for a chance to proceed to the judge auditions. Contenders will also be allowed to audition during open-call dates, and auditions will be open worldwide to all those eligible.

"Idol Across America" auditions will be held as follows (subject to change):
· VIP Day (Aug. 25): Only the first 250 singers who register will secure a spot for their chance to become the next Idol! Once all spots are claimed, registration for this date closes.
· Florida, Michigan, Virginia, West Virginia (Aug. 26)
· Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania (Aug. 27)
· The South Open Call (Aug. 31)
· Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Wisconsin (Sept. 1)
· Alaska, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Washington (Sept. 2)
· Kansas, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas (Sept. 8)
· Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Wyoming (Sept. 9)
· Nationwide Open Call (Sept. 11)
· East Coast Open Call (Sept. 14)
· Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina (Sept. 16)
· Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont (Sept. 18)
· West and Midwest Open Call (Sept. 21)
· Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi (Sept. 23)
· Delaware; Maryland; Ohio; Washington, D.C.; Rhode Island; Massachusetts (Sept. 25)
· Nationwide Open Call (Sept. 28)

For information on how to sign up for "Idol Across America" and to register to virtually audition in front of an "American Idol" producer, please visit americanidol.com/auditions. Contenders may audition on any "Idol Across America" date, regardless of location. For full eligibility requirements, details on specific dates, submission forms, and terms and conditions, please visit the website.

The Futon Critic
TV Line

Deadline

Variety

The Hollywood Reporter

Reality TV World

posted 7/29/2026

Brazil Switches
Lineup Industries' Game Sold to SBT
From Realscreen

Lineup Industries has secured the first Latin American adaptation of its gameshow format "Switch" after Brazilian broadcaster SBT commissioned an in-house version for its long-running variety show "Domingo Legal." The deal marks the latest international expansion for the quiz format, which has already been adapted across Europe and the United States.

The Brazilian edition will feature a top prize of R$50,000 (almost $10,000 USD) per episode and will be hosted by veteran television presenter Celso Portiolli, one of Brazil's best-known entertainment personalities.

Originally developed by Panenka for Belgian public broadcaster VRT, "Switch" is distributed internationally by Lineup Industries. The format is currently produced in the United States by DIGA Studios for Game Show Network, while VCM Production produces both the regular and celebrity versions for Greek public broadcaster ERT1. The format has also aired in the Netherlands and Germany.

Ed Louwerse, Founder of Lineup Industries, highlighted both the audience appeal and production efficiency of the format. “This is a fun show where the gameplay is quick and clever with the type of easy to follow but innovative quiz that appeals to all audiences. For broadcasters, it’s also an extremely cost-effective production with the added appeal of a distinctive set. SBT is the ideal partner to take the format into Brazil and to have Celso Portiolli on board to host is a real honour - the show fits perfectly with his charismatic and personable approach.”

In "Switch," five contestants begin the game positioned behind numbers one through five. After each trivia question, players who answer correctly move closer to the number one position, while incorrect answers push contestants toward number five. The objective is to finish the third round in the number one position, earning the opportunity to compete in a bonus round for a $10,000 prize in the original format.

“I’m thrilled to present the Brazilian version of the global hit Switch. I’m confident it will bring even more entertainment and fun to Domingo Legal. It’s both an exciting challenge and something I’m certain will be a success. Let’s do this together!” said host Celso Portiolli.

Realscreen
Senal News

posted 7/29/2026

This Is a Game Show?
Actual Title of Tubi's New Comedy Game Show July 31!
From The Hollywood Reporter

This Is A Game Show? Creator, comic and actress Mitsy Sanderson will clear up any questions about her inquisitively titled new series when it hits Tubi on July 31.

The project, from Adam Wescott’s newly launched Home Game Studios, is described as a comedy-driven game show — that answers that! — which brings together contestants from different corners of culture to compete in challenges that test their knowledge of current events, pop culture and themselves. Featuring head-to-head match-ups, like “LA vs. New York,” and “Drag Queen vs. Bro,” the series will welcome a revolving door of personalities, podcasters and more.

“I really wanted to create a show that was fun and in a format I could host and do lots of episodes over time,” says Sanderson. “A game show like show was the perfect idea for anyone to watch anytime. We had such a great time on set. The guests, no matter how different they were, came ready to play. I am excited to share it all with Tubi viewers. I think they will really enjoy it.”

Created by Wescott, This Is A Game Show? was developed in-house as the first title from his Home Game Studios. It reunites the CEO and co-founder with Tubi following the success of Sidelined: The QB and Me, the streamer’s most-watched original title to date that has gone on to become a three-film franchise. (The final installment bows later in 2026.)

Alongside co-founder Max Lubin, Home Game Studios is an independent content studio that will develop, produce and distribute scripted and unscripted content with creators and brands. Among the growing slate of projects that will roll out in the near future are titles with top and emerging creators include Loey Lane, Gray Fagan and Morgann Book, as well as a dating competition featuring Texas fitness influencers Ethan Kwon, Tin Nguyen and Flako.

The launch comes as Tubi and its audience further embraces creator-led entertainment across platforms. Per Tubi’s annual cultural insights report, 67 percent of respondents claimed digital creator content felt more original than traditional television series and films.

The Hollywood Reporter

Tubefilter

posted 7/29/2026

Wednesday Lightning Round
... or "Running Man"

  • Joe Amabile has procedure delayed while training for the New York City Marathon (Parade)

  • Ezra Sosa defends his sister after she gets accidentally injured on "DWTS: The Next Pro" (Us Weekly)

  • Sasha Farber, girlfriend split after 3 months (People)

  • After multiple losses last year, Vanessa Grimaldi is expecting baby #2! (People)

  • Kenzie Annis, Dylan Wrona go Insta official (Reality TV World), sign with an agent (Deadline)

  • Keanu Soto expecting his first child with his girlfriend (People)

  • Derek Hough's wife loses her stepfather (TV Insider)

  • Survivor champ Tina Wesson wants to see a season of first-ones-out (Entertainment Weekly)

  • A FEW GOOD MINUTES... with Plane Jane (Entertainment Weekly)

  • AND FINALLY.... If you have not seen tonight's episode of "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?", do not click this link! (TV Line)

posted 7/29/2023


Apploff Entertainment/Fox

You Are Watching Foxx
Catch The Season Premiere!
From TV Insider

After taking a year off, the hit Fox music game show, Beat Shazam, is back with host Jamie Foxx and his cohost and DJ daughter Corinne guiding three teams of two as they race against the clock to identify the biggest songs for their eighth season. The team that banks the most money at the end has the chance to win up to $1 million as they go against Shazam itself.

This season, the show will celebrate its 100th episode and, according to creator and executive producer Jeff Apploff, nods to the milestone will happen throughout the season, with the big hour being commemorated by celebrating where it all started. “We look back and see the fun things that we’ve done, and we also have special music,” Apploff told us. “It’s an amazing tribute.”

To add to the celebration, Season 8 will feature themed episodes including ladies night, teams of NFL fans, heroes, college students, teachers, best friends, and couples. While Apploff says they are keeping the show “true to what they have done in the past,” there will be special moments throughout the season to keep things interesting for both loyal and new fans. “People love music, and they love listening to a song and trying to figure out what the title is. It’s a great way to play a trivia game,” he said.

For the premiere, no game elements will be changed like in seasons past. “However, there are special moments all throughout the series that make it different from any other series that we’ve done before,” Apploff said.

TV Insider
Just Jared

posted 7/28/2026

Food Network Lines Up New Bobby Flay Competition
"The Line" to Premiere September 8
From The Futon Critic

In restaurant kitchens around the world, elite chefs must work as a team every night to perfectly execute their dishes under intense pressure and in the new competition series Bobby Flay's The Line, the culinary icon pulls back the curtain on the high-stakes reality of working on a restaurant line. Each week, Bobby leads his hand-picked home team of extraordinary chefs Antonia Lofaso, Michael Jenkins and Claudette Zepeda against some of the country's most acclaimed restaurant staffs to execute a flawless dinner service - all for real diners in real time. The dueling lines must deliver dishes to diners and VIP guests, who rate each plate. After the ratings roll in, the lines can then choose to pivot their strategy based on that feedback. The home team's reputation is at stake to secure the win, but if the visiting team prevails, they will win $25,000. Bobby Flay's The Line premieres Tuesday, September 8th at 9pm ET/PT on Food Network, following the season five return of Bobby's Triple Threat on Tuesday, August 25th at 8pm ET/PT, with both series available to stream next day on HBO Max.

"I consider The Line the project that Food Network audiences have been waiting for - it combines high-end restaurant cooking, exhilarating competition and behind-the-scenes moments in real time," said Flay. "It's how the restaurants that we run work - and sometimes don't. The Line is a real-life kitchen rollercoaster that the viewer will want to be strapped in for. Seat belts everyone - the kitchen is open!"

The Futon Critic

Variety

posted 7/28/2026


BBC
BILL ODDIE: 1941-2026
Comedian & Birder Played Games
From Variety

Bill Oddie, the English comedian and conservationist known for hosting wildlife programs including BBC’s “Springwatch,” has died. He was 85.

Oddie’s agent, David Foster, confirmed his death in a statement to BBC News on Monday, calling him “the country’s best-loved birder.”

Foster continued: “Bill was a multi-talented celebrity — wildlife presenter, broadcaster, comedian, writer, songwriter, musician and conservationist. Yet it was never fame that he valued. Instead he encouraged us to respect and protect the environment. He taught us the wonder of it. He protested, lobbied and campaigned for it. He led the way and people of all ages and backgrounds responded to his call. And such a massive contribution to conservation will never be forgotten.”

Oddie got his start on the TV comedy series “The Goodies” alongside his Cambridge classmates Tim Brooke-Taylor and Graeme Garden, which ran from 1970 to 1982.

He then shifted to presenting and focused on his love of wildlife, specifically birds. He hosted a slew of successful nature programs for the BBC from the mid-80s to 2008, including “Birding With Bill Oddie,” “Bill Oddie Goes Wild,” “Springwatch,” “Autumnwatch” and more.

In game shows, Oddie appeared on episodes of "Pointless Celebrities", "Celebrity Fifteen to One", "Celebrity Chase", "MasterChef Goes Large", "Would I Lie to You?", "Celebrity Eggheads", "8 out of 10 Cats", "Never Mind the Buzzcocks", "Who Wants to Be A Millionaire", "Celebrity Mastermind", "Shooting Stars", "Double Dare UK", "Sky Star Search", "Give Us a Clue", "The Pyramid Game", "Star Games", "It's a Knockout", "Celebrity Squares", and "Password".

Born on July 7, 1941, in Rochdale, Lancashire, England, Oddie moved to Birmingham at a young age and was raised by his father and grandmother. He went on to study English literature at Cambridge University, and it was there that he became interested in comedy, appearing in several productions of the sketch comedy troupe Footlights.

In the late ’60s, he began his venture into show business as a key member of the BBC radio program “I’m Sorry, I’ll Read That Again,” on which several of his musical compositions were featured. After writing and performing on comedy series including “Twice a Fortnight” and “Broaden Your Mind,” Oddie got his big break with “The Goodies,” known for its surreal sketches and situational comedy. In addition to writing and acting on the series, Oddie wrote all the music including co-penning the show’s theme song.

In the mid-’80s, Oddie became increasingly interested in wildlife, drawing from his lifelong passion of birdwatching. This kickstarted the second phase of his career, in which he became a beloved nature presenter known for programs including “Oddie in Paradise” (1985), “Birding With Bill Oddie” (1997-1998, 2000), “Bill Oddie Goes Wild” (2001-2003), “Bill Oddie’s How to Watch Wildlife” (2005-2006), “Springwatch” (2005-2008), “Autumnwatch” (2006-2008) and “Bill Oddie’s Wild Side” (2008).

In 2003, he was made an OBE for his services to wildlife conservation. Oddie is survived by his wife Laura and daughters Bonnie, Kate and Rosie.

Variety
Deadline
The Daily Beast
BBC News
Wales Online

posted 7/28/2026

Tuesday Lightning Round
... or "Gladiators of the Pitch"

  • "The Traitors UK" rugby star Joe Marler MAY be joining the Gladiators (Metro)

  • Time may be up for Sara Davies & "Time Is Money" (TV Zone)

  • Devin Goda, James O'Halloran basically post "The boys are back in town" (TV Insider)

  • YOU CAN'T SCRIPT THIS: 1% Club champ sets the world record for eating fish sticks... or, because this is the UK, fish fingers (BBC News)

  • A FEW GOOD MINUTES... with Trinity Tatum & Bryce Alakai (Reality TV World)

posted 7/28/2023

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